Junction Lake Loop via Pacific Crest Trail(edit)

based on 19 tracks & routes | |

DIFFICULT

#22 hike out of 624 in Gifford Pinchot National Forest |

DIFFICULT

9.4 mi

Distance

5 hrs 2 min

Time

1,218 ft

Elev Gain

Overview

This is a difficult loop trail to Junction Lake in Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

This trail goes by Cultus Lake, Lemei Lake, and Deer Lake.

Getting Started

Begin and end this hike from the Cultus Creek Campground. It's a large campground, and the entry / exit points are about 1/4 mile apart, so don't fret at the slight confusion...you're in the right place when you leave.

Taking Children

I would not recommend taking children on this hike due to the difficulty.

Sights to See

Rate this Hike

★★★★★

pdx.duck 4 years, 2 months ago

*9/8/2020 trail report- lots of blow down on the PCT north of Blue lake from the high winds the night of 9/7. At least 30 large trees are down on the PCT within a mile of Blue Lake.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

bergermh 4 years, 8 months ago

This is a very unique loop that has several drastic changes throughout the course of the hike. You encounter unusual flat, grassy sections enclosed by evergreens with amazing views of Hood and Adams, as well as heavily forested sections, and several alpine lakes.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★